Uber rival Ola, India’s ride-hailing giant, to launch in the UK

The streets of South Wales may seem a long way from the heat and hustle of Mumbai or Dehli, but Indian Uber rival Ola Cabs is hoping it can bridge the distance between the two.

Ola, one of India’s ride-hailing giants, has confirmed it is set to launch in Cardiff and Newport in the coming weeks, having obtained licences for the areas. It is also planning to open in Greater Manchester ahead of a nationwide roll out by the end of the year.

The ambitious launch is something of a surprise move for Ola. The UK would represent only its second international market outside of its home base in India. Ola launched in Australia in Sydney earlier this year.